Becker Cervical Orthosis Manual

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1. Puttingonwhilelyingdown(withahelper):
Lay the front half on the orthosis against the chest so the chin rests in the cupped portion
of the orthosis. “Log roll” to your side while your assistant supports your head and neck.
Center the back half of the orthosis behind the head and neck.
Applyingwhilestandingup(withahelperpreferably):
Hold your head so you are looking straight ahead. Have your helper (or yourself) place the
front half on the orthosis against your chest so the chin rests in the cupped portion of the
orthosis. Center the back half of the orthosis behind the head and neck.
2. Pull the Velcro straps on the sides of the neck to secure it. Make sure the brace is snug but
not uncomfortably tight. It should not press the chin in a backward direction or “choke” you.
APPLYING THE ORTHOSIS
INTRODUCTION
Cervical Orthosis
Care and Use Instructions
1. Cervical orthoses, such as the Johnson Collar (pictured below),
Philadelphia Orthoses, and Miami-J Cervical Collar, are designed
to keep you from bending forward or sideways (laterally) in the
cervical spine area. Wearing a cervical orthoses can help support
an injury or surgery, relieve pain due to stresses and strains, and/
or other problems of the neck area.
2. The orthosis works by supporting your jaw and cheeks to hold
your neck.
1. Do not attempt to put on the cervical orthosis yourself. Have someone help you so as to
minimize the risk of unwanted cervical motion and to ensure ideal positioning.
2. The collar will be more comfortable if worn over a T-shirt or layer of stockinet. Put on the
undergarment rst only if it can be done safely without risk of causing movement of the
neck. If this is not possible, a layer of stockinet or T-shirt material may be slid up under the
orthosis after it is applied.
FITTING

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1. The orthosis should be worn as snug as you can tolerate. This way the orthosis will keep
your head its straightest, thus providing better support. It will also keep the orthosis from
shifting.
2. Remember, the collar cannot stop your neck from moving. It is used to reduce movement.
It also serves as a reminder to change how you act and move. When you want to move
your head, you move your entire body.
3. Water will not damage this orthosis. It can be cleaned with soap and water. Ask your
orthotist or physician if you are allowed to take the orthosis o before cleaning it.
4. A piece of soft cotton cloth (i.e. handkerchief material) may be laid under the chin to
reduce skin irritation.
5. Each time that the orthosis is removed, check for skin irritation.
6. If you have any questions or problems, do not hesitate to call your orthotist for assistance.
WEARING GUIDELINES & PRECAUTIONS
NOTE: Weight gain or loss may possibly change the design and manufacture of the orthosis/
prosthesis delivered. Please contact the practitioner if this occurs to prevent potential injury.